Individual-Level Predictors of the Working Relationship between Probation Officers and Probationers

The working relationship between probation officers and probationers is an important area of research given recent studies illustrate a strong relationship reduces recidivism. In this study, the perceptions of the working relationship between officers and probationers were examined among a group of substance-using probationers who participated in a multi-site randomized clinical trial. After 6 months, probationers who reported greater alcohol use and greater family and peer drug use on a baseline Addiction Severity Index were less likely to perceive their probation officer as being caring/fair/trustworthy, and older probationers were less likely to perceive their PO as being tough. Important policy implications are discussed.